Cyprus Times

Drone Strike Hits Akrotiri Base, Fires Rage – Personnel Evacuated

Published March 2, 2026, 09:07
Drone Strike Hits Akrotiri Base, Fires Rage – Personnel Evacuated

Following a drone strike at the British base in Akrotiri, the area is on high alert. The attack was carried out with a Shahed UAV, capable of carrying up to 50 kg of explosives and travelling over 2,000 kilometers. According to British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, the target was the runway. Both the Republic of Cyprus and Britain confirmed the strike. Sources within the base report that multiple drones attempted to infiltrate, with one crashing into the aircraft hangar, causing a fire that raged for hours. International agencies and analysts describe the Akrotiri base as one of the most important British bases outside the United Kingdom and mention evacuations. The administration of the British Bases has allowed non-essential personnel to evacuate along with their families as a precautionary measure. Some have already departed, while buses and trucks have been dispatched to transport more. This move is part of the strengthening of security measures. The incident has caused concern and has put authorities on alert, with increased vigilance and continuous assessment of security measures. The situation is being closely monitored, taking into account the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the need to protect British citizens in the region.